A holiday meal planned for some 2,000 Israelis at the Chabad House in Phuket, Thailand, was canceled Friday evening at the request of Israeli security officials, who instructed organizers not to hold the event at the site. The decision came after a pro-Palestinian demonstration was held in the area for several hours, during which protesters could be heard chanting "Free Palestine," among other slogans.
A message sent to Israeli travelers who had registered for the event said it was canceled for security reasons and warned that the protesters could become violent.
Nui Beach, Phuket
(Photo: shutterstock)
"Dear guests! Due to a request from Israeli security officials, we deeply regret that we are canceling the event," the message said. "Please do not approach the area. The protesters could become violent and it is dangerous."
Chabad asked Israelis to notify other travelers who had planned to attend and stressed that the remaining prayers and holiday meals, beginning Saturday, were expected to take place as scheduled.
The cancellation sparked frustration and anger among many Israelis in the area, with hundreds of travelers already preparing to attend the holiday meal. The demonstration and events in the area caused frustration among the thousands of Israelis staying at the popular tourist destination, some of whom were forced to change their holiday plans on short notice.
According to the message sent to travelers, the decision was made for security reasons and was not made by the Chabad House itself. Security officials sought to prevent Israelis from entering the area where the demonstration was taking place due to concerns about possible confrontations or attacks against them.